Losing the inconsistent Geno Smith might end up being the best thing to happen to the Jets, with veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick stepping in as the starting quarterback. The biggest potential downside to Smith being sidelined at least six weeks with a broken jaw? If the 32-year-old Fitzpatrick — who broke his leg in December — suffers an injury, too.

Here is an unappealing list of quarterbacks potentially vying to become Fitzpatrick’s backup while Smith is sidelined:

Rex Grossman: The Jets reportedly have reached out to the 34-year-old, who started for the Bears in Super Bowl XLI. He last was in the league in 2013 with the Redskins, but hasn’t appeared in a game since 2011. Grossman told NFL.com on Thursday he’s in good football shape, but wouldn’t be available to the Jets until next week as he finishes recovering from a sprained foot.

Michael Vick: Last year’s Jets backup doesn’t look like he’ll be coming back. According to NFL Network, Vick’s agent and the Jets had discussions regarding a reunion, but both sides determined it didn’t make sense.

Bryce Petty: Currently the Jets’ second-string quarterback, Petty has inspired little confidence among the coaching staff during a shaky first training camp. He went 10-for-18 with 50 yards passing in his preseason debut Thursday night. The former Baylor star, selected in the fourth round of this year’s draft, will almost certainly be supplanted by any other quarterback brought in by the team.

Matt Simms was released by the Jets in the spring.Bill Kostroun

Tyler Thigpen: Having played for four different teams since 2009, Thigpen was reportedly headed to New Jersey to work out for the Jets, but the session was canceled. He has thrown 13 passes over the past four seasons. He signed with Cleveland last December following numerous Browns injuries, an opportunity Grossman passed on because it came so late in the season. Thigpen played for Jets offensive coordinator Chan Gailey in Buffalo and Kansas City.

Matt Simms: Simms spent the past two seasons with the Jets as a backup, but asked for his release this spring. Currently listed as fourth on the Buffalo Bills’ depth chart, the 26-year-old could soon be cut by Rex Ryan — again.

Matt Flynn: Visited the Jets for a physical on Friday to examine his injured hamstring. Signed to be the Seattle Seahawks’ starting quarterback just over three years ago, Flynn’s career has collapsed since Russell Wilson took his spot. The former Aaron Rodgers understudy has spent the past three seasons with three different teams. The 30-year-old was released by the Patriots on Monday.

Jordan Palmer: A free agent, Carson’s baby brother has spent seven seasons as an NFL backup, throwing for a career total of 66 yards.

Jason Campbell: The veteran has played for four teams in the past four seasons, after starting his career as a first-round pick with the Washington Redskins in 2005. The quarterback reportedly turned down multiple offers this year and has hinted at retirement, though he has not yet made an official announcement.

Brady Quinn: The former Notre Dame star spent some time with the Jets in 2013, but spent last year out of football. Currently a TV analyst, Quinn, 30, attended the NFL Veteran Combine in March.

Tim Tebow: Once was enough. Besides, he’s still with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Jared Lorenzen: The Hefty Lefty/Pillsbury Throwboy, who served as Eli Manning’s backup with the Giants for four years (2004-07), relayed his interest in the job, telling the Jets he looks “great in green,” citing his time with the Northern Kentucky River Monsters. The 300-plus-pounder can dream — and so can we.